June14, 2014

WASHINGTON, DC—Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement about reports that Russia has sent tanks and other military equipment to aid anti-government activities in Ukraine:

“Russia's decision to send tanks and rocket launchers to anti-government rebels Ukraine is a dangerous step. Ukraine's new President has extended an olive branch to Russia in the hopes of working together toward stability in the region and the future prosperity of the Ukrainian people. How has President Putin responded? With more provocations. To show Putin that his actions have consequences, the United States must now consider imposing new, tougher sanctions on Moscow."